New-to-Canada Arrival Guide (Graduate)schulich.yorku.ca/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Arrival... ·...
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New-to-Canada Arrival Guide (Graduate) 2018-19
Transcript of New-to-Canada Arrival Guide (Graduate)schulich.yorku.ca/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Arrival... ·...
New-to-Canada Arrival Guide (Graduate)
2018-19
INTERNATIONAL RELATIONSWelcome to the Schulich Community!
Dear International Student,
Congratulations on being accepted to the Schulich School of Business at York University in Toronto, Canada!
Our team in the International Relations Office looks forward to welcoming you toSchulich, Toronto, and Canada. We hope that your time here will be a successful onefilled with exciting opportunities.
Our office is dedicated to making your transition to Canada a smooth one. We havecompiled this arrival guide for International Students which is designed to addresssome of the most frequently asked questions posed by international students abouttheir arrival on campus and getting settled in the community. We hope that you willfind this guide helpful.
Please get in touch with us if you have any questions. You may also have questionsabout course enrolment and academic advising in advance of arriving and should bein contact with Student and Enrolment Services to ensure you are academicallyprepared for the beginning of classes.
We look forward to meeting you at the New to Canada Orientation.
Sincerely,
Cheryl, Ann, Lan and Tim
International Relations Office Room: W262P, SSB; Tel: +1-416-736-5059
Email: [email protected]
Website: International Relations
Cheryl StickleyGraduate International Program CoordinatorEmail: [email protected]
Lan YuInternational Information Assistant
Email: [email protected]
Ann WelshInternational Student Support SpecialistEmail: [email protected]
Tim Tang Director, International Relations Email: [email protected]
Office Hours Monday through Friday 9:00 AM EST – 4:30 PM EST
Student ServicesRoom: W263, SSB; Tel: +1-416-737-5303Email: [email protected]
PREPARING TO ARRIVE IN CANADAPre-arrival Checklist
❑ Apply for your Study Permit and Visa
❑ Secure Accommodations
❑ Learn about Health Insurance
❑ Sign up for the Buddy Program
❑ What to Bring with you
❑ Plan to arrive for Orientation
PREPARING TO ARRIVE IN CANADAStudy Permit and Entry to Canada
Study Permit and TRV/eTA
• International students studying for longer than 6 months require a study permit to study in Canada.
• Review the application guide, supporting documents and processing times before applying.
• To avoid delays, we encourage you to apply early to allow sufficient time to receive your travel documents. You can apply as soon
as you receive your Letter of Acceptance.
• Upon approval, you will receive a Letter of Introduction from the visa office to give to the border officer when you arrive.
• Depending on your country of citizenship, you will also be issued a temporary resident visa (TRV) or electronic travel authorization
(eTA) to enter Canada (exception for US citizens).
Work Authorization• Work authorization and permits available to international students and graduates will be discussed at the New to Canada
Orientation at the end of August.
Accompanying Family Members• Your spouse and/or children may be eligible to come with you to Canada. Accompanying spouses are eligible to apply for an open
work permit.
Social Insurance Number (SIN)• The SIN is a 9-digit number that you need to work in Canada and file your taxes. You can apply for a SIN with either a valid study
permit that states work authorization (check this when they print your permit at the point of entry).
• You may apply for one in person:
a) From the Service Canada office at Pearson Airport (after passing through Immigration) – Office hours varyb) From any other Service Canada location. For more information, please visit Service Canada website
PREPARING TO ARRIVE IN CANADA AccommodationIt is your responsibility to secure accommodations in Toronto.
Consider the type of accommodation that is best for you by researching costs, location, etc.
On-Campus Housing
• York University Apartments - apartment buildings for graduate students and families
• Lease-based occupancy
• Furnished and unfurnished apartments
• Students should bring their own bedding, small kitchen appliances and other items
• For more details including rental rates, contact the York Student Housing Office
Off-Campus Housing
• If you choose to live off campus, it is your responsibility to find housing alternatives
• The Quad is a new off-campus student residence within 2 min walk to Schulich
• Note - Tenants in Ontario have certain rights and responsibilities. Familiarize yourself
with the general guidelines before entering into a lease or rental agreement by
visiting the Landlord and Tenant Board website.
York Student Housing Office:
340 Assiniboine Road, York University
Tel: +1-416-736-5152
Email: [email protected]
Website: Student Housing website
Executive Learning Centre Hotel:
Students and parents may stay here at a reduced rate upon arrival. Use promo code ‘SSB INTL STU’
Tel: +1-416-650-8300
Website: ELC Accommodation
PREPARING TO ARRIVE IN CANADA Health Insurance
University Health Insurance Plan (UHIP)
▪ Mandatory for all international students and dependents.
▪ Coverage includes services such as doctor’s visits and hospital ward accommodation in Ontario. UHIP only covers dental care required as a result of a major accident.
▪ UHIP does not cover medications, routine dental care, etc. Supplemental Insurance Recommended.
▪ The approximate cost is $208 per term.*
▪ Coverage begins on the 10th day of the month prior to the month of the first day of classes (i.e. April 10th or Aug. 10th or Dec 10th).
▪ For more information visit the UHIP website or the York University UHIP website.
▪ Additional travel health insurance should be purchased for travel outside of Canada.
Graduate Student Association (GSA) Supplemental Insurance
▪ Automatically registered for Students starting the program in the fall.
▪ Students starting in the winter term have option opt-in or obtain other insurance themselves.
▪ Coverage includes items such as prescription drugs, paramedical services, medical equipment and appliances, dental benefits, etc.
▪ Exemption: Students must provide proof of an alternative coverage to the GSA Office.
▪ The approximate cost is $400 from Sept. 1st – Aug. 31st.*
▪ For more information, including fees, please visit the GSA website.
▪ Both these fees will be billed to your student account.
Further details regarding health insurance and how to make claims will be provided at the New to Canada Orientation Session.
* Fees are subject to change.
PREPARING TO ARRIVE IN CANADAEngage in Student Life
The Graduate Business Council
The Graduate Business Council (GBC) is the Schulich studentrepresentative council for all master’s level graduate students.Each term the GBC organizes events and initiatives which help toengage students with the larger student body. Aside from socialand athletic activities, the GBC serves as the student body’svoice to the faculty and administration. Check out the GBC’sprogramming for international students:
Email: [email protected] Website: GBC Website
Programs: http://gbcschulich.com/programs-incoming-students/
Chats with the GBC
Weekly chats with the GBC leadership team to learn about GBC,clubs, success tips, do and don'ts and answer queries
Buddy Program
The GBC Buddy Program helps incoming international studentsconnect with a current student who will utilize his / herexperience and knowledge to help you transition to life inToronto and the Schulich School of Business.
Tours
Volunteer students bring incoming international students on atour around the campus, nearby stores and downtown
Student Clubs and Associations
Get involved with one of Schulich’s many clubs and associations.From the Case Analysis Club to the Schulich Net ImpactAssociation there is a group for every interest. Visit the GBCwebsite for more details: Schulich Clubs and Associations
PREPARING TO ARRIVE IN CANADAWhen to Arrive and What to Bring
Plan to arrive in Toronto at least a day or two prior to the New to Canada Orientation. This will allow you to beat the jet lag, set-
up your accommodations and become familiar with the campus. Review what to expect at the airport when you arrive in Canada.
Living on-campus? - Check the move-in times/dates so you can plan your arrival
Important Items to Pack
Valid Passport, with your Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) or
electronic Travel Authorization (eTA), as required; or US
passport*
Letter of Introduction from visa office (if applicable)*
Your Schulich Letter of Acceptance (copies acceptable)*
Proof of funds*
Address where you’ll be residing*
Photocopies/digital copies of all important documents (and
send to your email)*
Credit card(s)
Medical and eyeglass prescriptions if necessary
Medical insurance documents for extended health care
coverage if you have it
Driver’s license or international driver’s license (drivetest.ca)
Unlocked phone
Laptop
Power type A and B: Standard voltage is 120V, standard frequency
is 60Hz https://www.power-plugs-sockets.com/canada/
Business attire for presentations and career events
Weather appropriate clothing for the season
Canadian dollars or money to exchange for immediate use upon
arrival
York U Campus Map
* Pack in your carry-on luggage, as you will be required to showthese to the border officer after getting off the plane (before gettingyour checked luggage)
ARRIVAL IN CANADAArrival Checklist
❑ Transfer from the airport and check into your accommodation
❑ Orient yourself with the York campus
❑ Obtain your YU-card
❑ Contact your Schulich Buddy
❑ Learn how to use public Transportation
❑ Go Shopping for Food and Living Essentials
❑ Attend Academic & Career Planning Session and New to Canada Orientation
❑ Explore!
ARRIVAL IN TORONTOTransport from Pearson International AirportAirport Taxi
▪ Easiest way to get directly to your place of residence with luggage.
▪ Taxi fares from the airport are based on a flat rate tariff.
▪ Fare : $50-60 CAD Approximately (tips and extra luggage fee extra).
▪ Travel time: 30 minutes to York campus.
▪ For more information on taxi services, visit the Pearson Airport website.
▪ Taxis will be waiting once you exit the airport terminal. Use only authorized taxi providers.
On-Campus
York Student Housing Office:
340 Assiniboine Road, York University,
Toronto, ON M3J 1L2
Tel: +1-416-736-5152
(Building #47 on the campus map)
Schulich School of Business:
111 Ian Macdonald Boulevard,
Toronto, ON M3J 1P3Tel: +1-416-736-5060
Off-CampusMake sure you have your apartment or hotel address available.
Airport Train to Downtown - Union Pearson Express
▪ Connects to Union and Bloor subway stations.
▪ Fare: $12 CAD Approximately. Pay by cash, credit, or Presto card (card
purchasable at green self-serve machines in Pearson Station).
▪ Travel time: 25 minutes to Union Station (Downtown).
▪ Locations: Terminal 1 (Link train available from Terminal 3).
▪ For more information, visit UPExpress at Pearson.
▪ Tickets: Union Pearson Express Tickets.
Ride-Hailing Apps
▪ Use Uber or Lyft to and from airport
ARRIVAL IN TORONTOPublic Transit from Pearson AirportPublic Transit: Toronto Transit Commission (TTC)
▪ Not recommended for first arrival as it is difficult to carry your luggage up and down stairs
and through crowds on the buses and subway.
▪ Cheaper alternative option ($3.25)
▪ Travel Time: Approximately 2 hours to the York campus
▪ Difficult to carry your luggage through crowds on the buses and subway during rush hour
(Monday to Friday 7am - 9am and 4:30pm – 6:30pm)
▪ Pick up location:
▪ Terminal 1, Ground Level, second curb, Column R4
▪ Terminal 3, Arrivals Level, third curb, Column C12
▪ For Schedule, please visit the TTC Website: 192 Airport Rocket
Airport TTC Tickets Vending Machine:
▪ Terminal 1: Curbside, at column "R“; Terminal 3: Single fare tickets @ the Currency
Exchange counter located on the arrivals level
▪ Cash or major credit cards accepted. Availability: 24x7 to purchase adult (not student)
tokens. You may also pay the driver directly with exact Canadian cash
▪ Ask the driver for a “Transfer” to continue your trip on another connecting TTC route so
you do not have to pay again
TTC Directions to York University
From Pearson Airport, take the 192 Airport Rocket Bus to the Kipling Subway Station
(Bloor- Danforth subway line)
Take the Eastbound subway from Kipling to St. George subway station
Exit the train at St. George station, walk up the stairs to the University-Spadina subway line and take the Northbound subway to
the York University subway station
Walk to your destination on campus
ARRIVAL AT YORK UNIVERSITYKnow your Campus
Banking & ATM Machines
▪ Bank of Montreal (BMO): Located in York Lanes. Branch & ATM machines.
▪ CIBC: Located in the Schulich School of Business. ATM only.
▪ Royal Bank (RBC): Located in 340 Assiniboine Residence & Bennett Centre. ATM only.
▪ Scotiabank: Located in Bergeron Centre for Engineering. ATM only.
▪ TD Canada Trust: Located in Central Square. ATM only.
Emergency and York Security
▪ Contacts in case of emergency
▪ In general: call 911. Free of charge from any phone
▪ On campus: York Security at +1-416-736-5333
▪ York Security Office Location: Parking Structure 2, William Small Centre
York U Safety Mobile Application
One-stop access to all of the University’s safety resources: direct call to campus security;
Key student safety services such as goSafe; Campus Shuttle; interactive campus maps.
Download it today - York U Safety App
York Lanes
▪ Includes places to eat, the bookstore, post office, public transit passes, pharmacy,
dentist, doctor, etc.
ARRIVAL AT YORK UNIVERSITYYU-CardThe YU-Card is York University's official photo identification & campus debit card. It provides access to key services such as
library, recreation facilities, exams, food, shopping, events, discounts and more.
How to get your YU-card:
Two options:
▪Upload your photo online and pick up your card in the Schulich Student Services Office. Further details will be emailed
to you from the Student and Enrolment Services Office
▪ If you are living on-campus and wish to have your YU-card as soon as possible to access the recreational facilities,
laundry, etc., upload your photo and pick-up your card at the YU-card Office
What do I need to bring?
▪ Your York U student number
▪ One piece of valid government-issued photo identification, such as: Passport; Driver’s license; Citizenship cards; BYID card
How to load money onto your YU-card
▪ Add money online here.
▪ YU-card station located in one of the campus libraries or at the YU-card Office located at 200 William Small Centre.
York Region Transit (YRT)
▪ Serves areas north of York University (York Region).
▪ The YRT Jane – Concord Route 20 Line runs along
Jane St. to Interchange Way at Highway 7 (IKEA & Walmart) Jane
St. to Rutherford Rd (Vaughan Mills Mall).
▪ Bus stops on the York campus : Close to York Lanes.
▪ Fare : $4 (One way)
▪ For more information, visit: YRT Website
Toronto Transit Commission (TTC)
▪ TTC is Toronto’s public transportation system.
▪ The subway system connects with buses and streetcars.
▪ The following are the bus routes to/from York University:
• 41 To Pioneer Village Station and Finch West Station
• 60C To Finch Station
• 106 To Pioneer Village Station and Sheppard West Station
Paying on the TTC:
▪ You can pay cash fare or reloadable Presto card to ride the TTC.
▪ Fare: $3.25 (Source–to-Destination). Presto $6 for card; minimum load $10.
▪ Bus drivers do not give back change.
▪ Presto card purchase: Subway stations or at Shoppers Drug Mart in York
Lanes.
▪ Obtain a transfer (from bus driver or subway station) for stopover or to
change routes if you paid cash fare, or retap Presto card (will not be
charged again if transfer is within 2 hours of initial tap).
For more information, visit: TTC Website
ARRIVAL IN TORONTOPublic Transportation
GO Transit
▪ Connects YU to out of town locations: Mississauga, Brampton,
Hamilton, Scarborough , Milton etc.
▪ Bus stops on the York campus : Close to York Lanes .
▪ Fare : $10-$20 (Depending on the distance)
▪ Tickets can be paid using Cash/Credit card/PRESTO Card
▪ For more information, visit: GO Website
ARRIVAL IN TORONTO
Alternate Grocery Shopping
Shoppers Drug Mart
York Lanes, York University
• Not a full grocery store but can pick up
some non-perishable food items and
snacks
Online Grocery Shopping
Grocery Gateway
• Minimum $45 per order
• More costly but convenient
• delivered to your apartment/residence
Specialty Grocery Stores
• There are other supermarkets and
grocery stores found near campus that
can accommodate any specific diet.
• Please visit the York International
website for more details
Shopping for food…
Your Community Grocers• University City Mall, Sentinel Rd.Directions: Walk South on Sentinel Rd. (South of The Village)
Real Canadian Superstore (also sells living essentials)
• Dufferin St. & Steeles Ave.Directions: From Pioneer Village Station take the 60 Steeles East bus to Finch station. Get off at the Dufferin St. stop.
No Frills• 3685 Keele St., Keele St. & St. Regis Cres.Directions: TTC 41 Keele bus. To the St. Regis Cres. stop.• 1 York Gate Blvd, York Gate MallDirections: Take the TTC 35A to Jane Station. Get off at the York Gate Blvd.
Walmart• 3757 Keele St., Keele St. South of Finch Ave. Directions: TTC 41 Keele bus to the Broadoaks Dr. stop.• 101 Edgeley Blvd, Hwy #7 & Edgeley BlvdDirections: Take TTC Subway to Vaughan Metropolitan Centre Station and walk 10 minutes.
T&T Supermarket• The Promenade, 1 Promenade Cir, Thornhill, ON L4J 4P8 Directions: Viva Purple bus to the Promenade Terminal Platform 7
ARRIVAL IN TORONTOShopping for living essentials…
IKEAKnown for ready-to-assemble furniture and home accessories at an affordable price. • 200 Interchange Way, Vaughan
Directions: Take TTC subway to Vaughan Metropolitan Centre Station or YRT #20 to Peelar Rd.
Large Shopping Malls
Vaughan Mills
(YRT #20)
Toronto Eaton Centre
(TTC Queen or Dundas Subway
Stations)
Yorkdale Shopping Centre
(TTC Yorkdale Subway Station)
Stores close to campus
Regardless of where you choose to stay, you will need to purchase living essentials like pillows, blankets, dishes, etc.
WalmartA popular store due to its low prices and good quality. You can also buy groceries.• 3757 Keele St., Keele St. South of Finch Ave.
Directions: TTC 41 Keele bus to the Broadoaks Dr. stop.• 101 Edgeley Blvd, Hwy #7 & Edgeley Blvd
Directions: Take TTC Subway to Vaughan Metropolitan Centre Station and walk 10 minutes.
DOLLARAMAKnown for affordable shopping. Broad range of products at fixed price from $1 to $3.Many locations in the area!http://www.dollarama.com/store-locator/
ARRIVAL IN CANADANew to Canada Orientation
The New to Canada Orientation provides information you need to successfully adapt to life at Schulich, Toronto, and
Canada. It is also an opportunity for you to get to know the International Relations team and meet other international
students from around the world.
In this session we will cover topics such as:
• Important immigration information and maintaining your status in Canada
• Work permits available to students
• Navigating Toronto via public transportation
• Things to see and do in and around Toronto
• Setting up a bank account
• Your health insurance coverage
Remember to register for the New to Canada Orientation:
MF New to Canada Orientation: August 1, 2018. Please register here.
New to Canada Orientation (MBA/IMBA/MMkt/MMgt/MAcc/PhD): August 30 & 31, 2018
For any other details, please contact International Relations Office at [email protected]
OTHER SCHULICH OFFICESStudent & Enrolment Services and Financial Aid
Student & Enrolment Services offer a variety of services such as academic
advising, registration & enrolment support, letters, etc.
For all your academic needs, contact: [email protected]
Financial Aid helps students with scholarships, bursaries, loans and awards.
For more information contact: [email protected]
ARRIVAL IN CANADAExplore!
Sightseeing
CN Tower: www.cntower.ca
St. Lawrence Market: www.stlawrencemarket.com
Kensington Market: www.kensington-market.ca
Toronto Islands: www.toronto.ca/parks/island
Museums
Royal Ontario Museum (ROM): www.rom.on.ca
Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO): www.ago.net
The Hockey Hall of Fame: www.hhof.com
Travel to the USA
Visa information: https://ca.usembassy.gov/embassy-consulates/toronto/
Toronto
Information: www.toronto.ca
Tourism: www.seetorontonow.com
Guides: www.toronto.com/guides
Visitor Information: www.toronto.ca/visitors/index.htm
Ontario
International Student Arrival: http://www.ontarioimmigration.ca/
Information: www.ontario.ca
Tourism: www.ontariotravel.net
Events: www.festivalsandeventsontario.ca
Canada
Information: www.canada.gc.ca
Tourism: www.canada.travel/selectCountry.html
Events: http://www.see-canada.ca/canada_festivals.htm
